Eight businesses based in the Houston area were among the 10 most-promising energy and clean technology venture companies announced by the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship (Rice Alliance) at the 15th annual Energy and Clean Technology Venture Forum held Sept. 14 at Rice University’s McNair Hall.

Energy and clean technology companies showcased their new offerings at the largest venture capital conference in the Southwest. Among the 600 attendees were investors, venture capitalists, industry representatives, business leaders, service providers and entrepreneurs.

The 10 most-promising energy and clean technology companies were chosen from more than 225 startup applicants and judged by industry experts and interest generated from participating investors. This was the most startups to ever participate in the forum.

“Every year the quality of companies improves,” said Rice Alliance managing director Brad Burke, who announced the winners. “Over the past 15 years, more than 2,000 companies have presented at Rice Alliance Technology Venture Forums. These companies have raised more than $3.1 billion in funding. This speaks to the quality of the companies and to the robust entrepreneurial ecosystem of investors that has been developed to support these companies. Despite the challenging economic environment over the past several years, good companies have been able to attract investors.”